The Deal

Technically, this is the last episode of Season Two (and listed as such on the DVD), but with NBC running the last four shows in the wrong order, the "finale" made no reference to the pivotal events of The Deal, which was the perfect ending for the season (in fact, Larry David had envisioned it as the end of the series, fearing Seinfeld wouldn't live past its second year - how wrong he was!).

The whole idea is based on the network's request that Jerry and Elaine get back together. Larry was against it but, fearing cancellation, he eventually relented and decided to use one of his personal experiences (he says so in the DVD interviews) for the storyline: after seeing an adult channel on TV (a random event that also spawns some priceless input from George), the former couple ponders whether to resume their relationship. Following some serious discussion, they strike a "deal": they will mix "this" (their friendship) and "that" (sex), meaning they can sleep together but not become romantically involved. No phone calls, no cuddling - just emotionless sex. Needless to say, this will cause problems.

One of the show's most unlikely set-ups becomes one of its best moments: The whole conversation about "this" and "that" is one of Larry David's finest achievements as a screenwriter (surpassed only by the "Master of your domain" jokes in Season Four), as is the unusually sweet epilogue, which some might find too moving for a show that made its lack of sentiment something to wear with pride. But maybe that's the point: ending it any other way would have been predictable by Seinfeld's standards, so an old-fashioned, heartfelt conclusion turns out to be the boldest narrative choice of the entire episode. It's also funny as hell.

If a complaint has to be made, it's regarding the fact that The Deal's events didn't affect the third season in terms of continuity. Oh, wait, hang on: continuity and Seinfeld? Forget what I just said: this is a comedy classic from start to finish - don't miss it for anything in the world.

I like the bit where George insists on getting details

It's not bad. It's just iunno. I like it but it's not a great episode.

60% of the episode takes place on Jerrys couch.

This review was published in June of the 10th of 2023rd in century 21st

What happened in this episode of Seinfeld?: Jerry and Elaine fk.

Kramer... Did nothing but give Elaine a bench

George tells Jerry it won't work.

The story and the production overview: its a low effort episode.

Highlight: Jerry and George conversation at monks.

Girlfriend attractiveness level: this Elaine was a 7.

Villian: society

Overall: an ok low effort episode.

What can be learned?: Emotions are like poison

Verdict: no deal.

Jerry and George are at Monk's Café, discussing Jerry & Elaine's deal for having sex without falling into relationship traps:

"I know less about women . . . Than anyone in the world, but the one thing I do know is that they are not happy if you don't spend the night. It could be a hot, sweaty room with NO air conditioning, and all they have is a little army cot THIS WIDE (picks up one of his french fries to show Jerry). You're not going ANYWHERE".

One should watch this for the incredible dialogue that takes place on the couch between Jerry and Elaine. It is as good as any comic writing by a superb playwright. The expressions used to balance friendship against talking about sex is amazing. Of course, nothing works out the way they had hoped. There is a very good bit with the purchasing of a birthday present.